Varies from plan to plan. In 2016, your annual deductible cannot be more than $360. Average national premium is $34.10.

Premiums and deductibles do not apply and copayments will be lower if you are enrolled in Extra Help – a federal program designed to help low-income individuals cover the cost of their prescription drugs.

High out-of-pocket costs during the coverage gap until you reach a catastrophic limit.

You may be charged an additional, permanent fee if you decline the Medicare Part D benefit when it is first offered to you and then later decide to purchase a Medicare Part D plan.

Original Medicare does not cover everything. In addition to retirement options through employers, individuals eligible for Medicare have the choice of purchasing a Medigap (Medicare Supplement) policy that would help cover some of the gaps in Original Medicare's coverage.

Depending on where you live, there are ten standard Medigap plans, A-N.* Plan A is generally the cheapest (offering the least amount of additional benefits) and Plan L the most expensive (offering more benefits). However, coverage and premiums vary among plans depending on the company you buy it from.

*As of June 1, 2010, Medicare introduced two new plans, M and N. Plans E, H, I and J will no longer be offered, but Medicare consumers who already have these plans will be able to keep them.

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The information provided on the PHA website is provided for general information only. It is not intended as legal, medical or other professional advice, and should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultations with qualified professionals who are familiar with your individual needs. PHA does not endorse or recommend any commercial products or services.